Simon Ekpa, a vocal pro-Biafra agitator and self-styled spokesperson for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), surprised many during a recent court session in Finland by downplaying his claims of being the “Prime Minister of Biafra.” Ekpa, who has faced global attention for his controversial separatist rhetoric, dismissed the title as mere “content creation.”
“I am just a content creator. The issue of being the Prime Minister of Biafra is not serious,” he told the court, raising questions about the intent and authenticity of his previous proclamations.
Ekpa is currently under investigation by Finnish authorities for alleged public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent. His arrest in Lahti, Finland, was part of an operation involving international collaboration. Finnish police also detained four others suspected of financing activities related to the case.
The allegations stem from Ekpa’s actions dating back to 2021, including his role in enforcing “sit-at-home” orders in southeastern Nigeria. These orders, often associated with IPOB activities, have disrupted economic activities and heightened tensions in the region.
International criticism has mounted against Ekpa, with observers pointing to the impact of his broadcasts and directives on Nigeria’s South East. The region has seen significant instability and economic challenges attributed to the enforcement of these directives.
Despite the allegations, Ekpa and his legal team have denied wrongdoing, describing the charges as baseless.
The Finnish court is now tasked with assessing the evidence to determine the next steps in the legal proceedings.